TCS To Host Three Information Meetings Ahead Of Property Tax Vote

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Tuscaloosa City Schools (TCS) is set to host three information meetings to address the upcoming property tax referendum vote later this month.

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As Patch previously reported, the referendum will be held on Sept. 24 and, if approved, would result in the city's property tax millage rate increasing by up to 11.5 mills. The revenue generated would then be allocated to the city school system.

As a way to educate voters before they take to the polls, TCS officials will be on hand at the following schools on the following dates for information sessions:

• Northridge High — Thursday, Sept. 12 at 6 p.m.
• Central High — Monday, Sept. 16 at 6 p.m.
• Paul W. Bryant High — Wednesday, Sept. 18 at 6 p.m.

Each meeting will be held in the gymnasium at each school.

If the measure is voted down at the ballot box, TCS has said it will be required to make additional staffing cuts, including reducing up to 50 educators.

The current millage rate — unchanged since 1986 — for homeowners in Tuscaloosa is 51.5 mills, of which TCS receives 15.5 mills, plus an additional 1.8 mill. If passed in September, the city's total millage rate would increase by roughly 22%.

TCS has also said it would be forced to remain stagnant on pay for teachers if the measure fails, which could decrease the school system's ability to ensure future funding of essential safety needs.

TCS Superintendent Mike Daria explained earlier this summer that the proposed increase would generate around $17.25 million a year starting in 2025, which would then be used to fund school safety, employee recruiting/retention and expanded programs for students.

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